A decade and a half has passed since Rockstar Games launched Red Dead Redemption, now considered among their most iconic titles. Remarkably, Rob Wiethoff – the voice behind protagonist John Marston – only recently experienced the game firsthand as a player.

Wiethoff published an extended gameplay session on his YouTube channel, chronicling his initial foray into the Western epic. During commentary, he shared behind-the-scenes insights from recording sessions, including why Marston often shouts conversations near horseback. Motion capture captured most performances, but riding sequences required studio recordings. Developers reportedly instructed Wiethoff to project his lines excessively: “You have to say your lines in a way that they would definitely be heard even if you are riding at a full gallop next to a freight train in a thunderstorm.”

This audio design quirk persisted until Red Dead Redemption 2 introduced contextual voice modulation. Arthur Morgan’s dialogue now dynamically adjusted volume based on scenarios – raised during pursuits or distance, quieter during calm interactions – necessitating dual recordings per line.

Viewers noted Wiethoff’s uncanny accuracy during a target-shooting segment, where players typically rely on the “Dead Eye” slow-motion mechanic. Without activating this feature, the actor landed a perfect shot, astonishing both himself and the audience.